Iraq interpreters 'abandoned' by UK

The Government has been accused of abandoning 91 Iraqi interpreters who have risked their lives to help British forces.

The individuals and their families have reportedly been told they will not be given favourable treatment for asylum in the UK, despite the danger of retribution from militants.

Whitehall officials are said to have ignored personal appeals from senior Army officers that the rules be relaxed in recognition of the interpreters' contribution to operations in Iraq.

One letter from a native member of staff requesting help - accompanied by a glowing tribute from a British commanding officer - reached former Downing Street foreign policy adviser Nick Banner, according to The Times.

He responded that the man was not eligible for asylum and advised him to look at a website and apply to another country.

Last month Denmark granted asylum to 60 Iraqi staff and their families after it withdrew troops from Iraq. The US has said it will take in 7,000 Iraqis this year, including former employees.

However, the UK has apparently refused to give special treatment so far.

Labour backbencher David Winnick said: "I would hope that the authorities here would be no less generous than the Danes.

An MoD spokesman insisted the Government valued the "significant contribution" of local employees and took their safety "very seriously".

But he added: "In operational theatres, we consider any specific requests for assistance from serving or ex-employees on their individual merits. Should an individual seek to come to the UK, there are Home Office procedures which allow them to apply for entry clearance."